Spiegel Spotlight: News for District 2 - February 2026

County of Riverside California - External sent this bulletin at 02/02/2026 09:00 AM PST

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To contact the Second District, please email district2@rivco.org.

Dear Friends and Second District Residents,

As we begin the month of February, I want to reflect on a very active and meaningful start to the year across District 2. I was honored to receive support from my colleagues to serve as Chair of the Board of Supervisors for 2026. I look forward to leading our team with many exciting things to come as well as America celebrating its 250th birthday. We will be announcing various events including our County libraries participation. Please connect with our team District2@rivco.org with any events your community or organization will be doing. We would like to share these events to help with the success of each of them.

Our CEO, Jeff VanWagenen has introduced a RivCoNOW program which has taken the complexity of a very large organization and simplified the processes, enabling your data to be saved for easy population and knowledge for other departments. This data will allow you to visit various service sites and streamline information.

January was filled with important community events, public safety investments, and partnerships that strengthen our region and support families, businesses, and neighborhoods. My office joined regional leaders at wildfire resilience meetings to advance prevention strategies and provide homeowners with practical tools to reduce fire risk. We celebrated the re-opening of El Cariso Fire Station 51 and the completion of renovations at Lake Hills Fire Station 82, both critical investments in emergency response and community safety. We also marked the grand re-opening of the Home Gardens Library and the opening of the Lakeland Village Community Center under new management, expanding access to learning spaces and essential services for residents of all ages.

January also highlighted the continued growth and economic vitality of District 2. We were pleased to attend several business and community events, including chamber roundtables and regional economic partnership gatherings that focus on collaboration and opportunity. We celebrated new housing developments in Corona and Norco that will bring much-needed housing options to our communities while supporting long-term neighborhood stability. These projects reflect our commitment to thoughtful growth that balances opportunity with quality of life.

Looking ahead, February brings a significant opportunity to recognize the remarkable women who make a difference in our communities across Riverside County. This honor will recognize women who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Woman of the Year Award in District 2. I encourage you to nominate the woman in your life who inspires change and strengthen our community. The selected honoree will be recognized at the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon Street in Riverside. Learn more about the 2026 Woman of the Year...

Your voice also plays a vital role in shaping the future of Riverside County. The Countywide Budget Priorities Survey is currently open, and I encourage residents to take a few minutes to share their thoughts on what matters most to them. Your feedback helps guide decisions on services, programs, and investments that impact our daily lives. Hearing directly from our community ensures that our priorities reflect the needs and values of the people we serve. Participate in the budget survey today!

This month, we also pause to recognize several vital holidays and observances. We honor President Lincoln’s Birthday, Presidents’ Day, and President Washington’s Birthday as moments to reflect on leadership and public service. On Monday, February 16, we recognize President’s Day, a Federal Holiday, and our County offices will be closed. We also celebrate the Chinese New Year and the cultural traditions that enrich our diverse community. Ash Wednesday marks a season of reflection for many of our residents, and Valentine’s Day reminds us of the importance of kindness and connection. February is also Black History Month and National Cancer Prevention Month, providing time to acknowledge history, resilience, and the importance of health and prevention.

As always, I encourage you to scroll through the full newsletter to stay informed about District 2 and countywide updates, including policy actions, community resources, and upcoming events. Our goal is to keep you informed about issues that matter and opportunities to connect with your County government. Thank you for staying engaged and for being an active part of our community.

Warmly,

Keeping Our Communities Safe

The Board of Supervisors approved $300,000 in Second District Unincorporated Communities Initiative funding to refurbish child visitation rooms in Lake Elsinore and La Sierra. These spaces are used by children and families involved in child welfare services. They will be redesigned to create a calmer, more welcoming environment that reduces stress and supports healthy family connections. Improvements will include child-friendly décor, furniture, and age-appropriate toys and books. This investment directly supports vulnerable children and families during already difficult circumstances.

To improve safety and quality of life in unincorporated communities, the Board approved funding for an additional Code Enforcement Officer dedicated to Lakeland Village, Temescal Canyon, and parts of Lake Elsinore. This position will allow for faster response to illegal dumping, health and safety violations, and priority community concerns. Increased enforcement helps keep neighborhoods clean, protects property values, and addresses issues before they become larger problems. This action reflects the County’s continued focus on responsive services in District 2’s unincorporated areas.

The Board approved the Lakeland Village Sports Park Foul Ball Netting Project to improve public safety for families and park visitors. The project will install new protective netting to prevent foul balls from leaving the field and entering spectator and play areas. This upgrade helps ensure children and families can safely enjoy recreational spaces without interruption. The project is funded through a combination of Facilities Management and District 2 community funds.

Housing & Homelessness Prevention

The County accepted nearly $5 million in state housing funds through the CalHome and Joe Serna, Jr. Farmworker Housing programs to help first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership. These funds will provide mortgage assistance to at least 38 eligible families across Riverside County, including farmworker households. Supporting homeownership strengthens neighborhood stability and helps working families build long-term financial security. This action expands access to housing opportunities at a time when affordability remains a significant challenge.

The Board approved participation in the State’s Pro-Housing Designation Program, which makes Riverside County eligible for additional housing and infrastructure funding. This designation recognizes jurisdictions that actively support responsible housing development and allows the County to compete more effectively for state grants. Achieving this status will help bring more resources into local communities for housing, transportation, and public improvements. It also protects the County from future state penalties tied to housing compliance.

The Board approved over $6 million in state funding to help families, seniors, and dependent adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Programs such as Bringing Families Home and Home Safe provide rental assistance, housing navigation, and case management services to stabilize households and prevent homelessness. These initiatives focus on child-welfare-involved families and on seniors served by Adult Protective Services. The funding will support hundreds of residents through 2028 and strengthen the County’s homelessness prevention strategy.

Health & Human Services

Significant investments were approved to strengthen countywide behavioral and public health systems. These actions included extending agreements that support mental health electronic health records, residential treatment facilities, and inpatient hospital placements, all of which are fully funded through state and federal sources. Additional federal and state grants were accepted to strengthen public health infrastructure and expand services related to disease prevention and community health planning. These programs ensure residents continue to receive essential care without impacting the County’s General Fund.

Infrastructure & Transportation

Several infrastructure and transportation projects affecting District 2 were completed or advanced, including the Limonite Avenue Interchange Fencing Project in Eastvale and drainage improvements in Temescal Canyon. These projects improve roadway safety, protect neighborhoods from flooding, and enhance traffic flow. Infrastructure investments like these help support daily commuting, emergency access, and long-term community development. They also reflect continued reinvestment in aging public systems.

LEUSD Students Showcase Innovation and Achievement at Annual Science Fair

The District 2 team attended the Lake Elsinore Unified School District (LEUSD) Science Fair to recognize students for their outstanding achievements in science, technology, and innovation. Read more...

Students Explore Public Service at Riverside County’s Youth in Government Day

Students from across Riverside County participated in the 27th Annual Youth in Government Day, an event designed to introduce young leaders to the inner workings of local government and the role public service plays in shaping communities. Read more...

Board of Supervisors Proclaims January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month

During a Board of Supervisors meeting, county leaders proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Read more...

Home Gardens Library Reopens with Expanded Learning Spaces for the Community

Supervisor Spiegel, community members, and local leaders gathered for the Grand Re-Opening of the Home Gardens Library, celebrating a new chapter for this vital neighborhood resource dedicated to learning, creativity, and connection. Read more...

Norco Valley Square Luxury Apartments Celebrate Grand Opening

Supervisor Spiegel joined the Norco Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center and members of the Previti Group for the Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of Norco Valley Square Luxury Apartments. Read more...

Second Street Family Apartments Break Ground to Expand Affordable Housing in Corona

Community leaders and partners gathered in Corona to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Second Street Family Apartments, marking an important milestone in expanding affordable housing opportunities for local families. Read more...

Renovated Fire Station 82 Strengthens Emergency Response for Lake Hills Community

Supervisor Spiegel, Riverside County Fire, Fire Chief Fish, and residents joined to mark the completion of essential renovations at Fire Station 82, a milestone that will enhance emergency response and public safety for the Lake Hills community. Read more...

Lakeland Village Community Center Opens New Chapter Under Family Service Association

The District 2 office joined community members for the Grand Re-Opening of the Lakeland Village Community Center, which marks a new chapter under the management of Family Service Association. Read more...

Local Leaders Gather for Corona Chamber’s Good Morning Corona Event

Community leaders, business partners, and elected officials gathered for the Corona Chamber of Commerce’s Good Morning Corona event, which brought participants together for a morning focused on collaboration, leadership, and community engagement. Read more...

Riverside County Medical Association Honors Physician Leaders at Annual Awards Dinner

Supervisor Spiegel joined the Riverside County Medical Association for its 133rd Installation of Officers and Annual Awards Dinner, held at the Victoria Club in Riverside. Read more...

Community Leaders Gather in Support of District Attorney Crime Prevention Foundation

Community leaders and partners gathered for a Dinner in Support of the Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin Crime Prevention Foundation, recognizing the Foundation’s role in strengthening public safety through proactive crime prevention and early intervention efforts. Read more...

District 2 Joins Norco Chamber Business Breakfast to Highlight Local Nonprofit Efforts

The District 2 team joined the Norco Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center for its monthly Business Breakfast Roundtable, held on the third Wednesday of each month. Read more...

Lake Elsinore Students Recognized at Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month Program

Staff from the District 2 team attended the Lake Elsinore Valley Chamber of Commerce's Student of the Month Program, where families, sponsors, and community leaders gathered for lunch to recognize outstanding local students. Read more...

Riverside Community Unites for 31st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk-A-Thon

Community members gathered in Riverside for the 31st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk-A-Thon, beginning at the Stratton Community Center in Bordwell Park and concluding at the Riverside Public Library in recognition of Dr. King’s legacy. Read more...

El Cariso Fire Station 51 Reopens Following Major Remodel in Lake Elsinore

Riverside County officials joined the Riverside County Fire Department for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the reopening of El Cariso Fire Station 51 in Lake Elsinore following the completion of a significant remodel. Read more...

A Night of Questions, Updates, and Community Voices in Temescal Valley

Community conversation took the spotlight as residents gathered for the Temescal Valley Municipal Advisory Council meeting. Read more...

Eastvale Community Pride in Action

Volunteers rolled up their sleeves at Harada Park to show what teamwork and community care in the city of Eastvale look like in action. Read more...

Celebrating the Partnerships Powering the Inland Empire

Regional collaboration took center stage as leaders from across the Inland Empire gathered to recognize the people and organizations shaping the region’s future. Read more...

Stepping Forward Together Against Cancer with Relay for Life Riverside County

The fight against cancer officially kicked off in Riverside County as the community came together for the Relay For Life First Lap in Corona. Read more...

Young Artists, Big Messages in Temescal Valley

Recycling took on new life through student artwork as creativity and environmental responsibility shared the spotlight in Temescal Valley. Read more...

Fireproofing the Future One Conversation at a Time

Wildfire safety took center stage at the French Valley Library as regional leaders came together with one shared goal: helping residents stay prepared for the next fire season. Read more...

NDR Therapeutic Riding

NDR Therapeutic Riding Center at No Drama Ranch was founded in 2010 in Norco, California, when Peppermint Ridge, a residential facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities, partnered with ranch owners Joe and Donna Hyde to create a therapeutic adaptive riding program. Recognizing the growing need for services that support individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, the Hydes developed a program focused on healing, confidence, and connection through horses. Donna Hyde became certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) and the Equine-Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA), establishing a strong foundation of professional, compassionate care.

Today, NDR’s PATH-certified instructors and therapists provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment with individualized lesson plans tailored to each participant’s unique goals. Participants experience physical and emotional benefits such as improved balance, strength, focus, communication, social skills, and self-esteem through equine-assisted activities. Every achievement, big or small, is celebrated, with success defined by each participant’s personal progress and journey.

NDR Therapeutic Riding serves children and adults ages 4 and up and is a vendor resource for Inland Regional Center, San Gabriel Pomona Regional Center, East Los Angeles Regional Center, and the Regional Center of Orange County, helping families and organizations improve quality of life through therapeutic riding and equine-assisted services. Learn more...

Bonnie Slager - City of Norco

Bonnie Slager is recognized for her remarkable service and unwavering commitment to the City of Norco. A steadfast champion of Norco’s traditions, Bonnie has devoted countless hours to preserving Norco’s unique lifestyle and fostering civic engagement. Her tireless volunteerism reflects the true spirit of service and leadership.

As President of the Norco Horseman’s Association (NHA) for the past ten years, Bonnie has been instrumental in maintaining Norco’s identity as Horsetown USA. Under her leadership, NHA continues to protect the equestrian heritage that defines Norco, ensuring trails remain accessible and that the city’s large-lot, agricultural, and animal-keeping rights are upheld.

Beyond her work with NHA, Bonnie has made an immeasurable impact on Norco’s most cherished events. She has served as Treasurer of Norco Horseweek for three years, overseeing financial operations to sustain this valued tradition. She also plays a vital role on the Norco Fair Committee, coordinating volunteers, managing button sales, and ensuring smooth operations.

Bonnie’s dedication extends to supporting key community events, including the Posse Rodeo and National Day of the American Cowboy, celebrations that highlight Norco’s western spirit. She has also led multiple community trail rides, such as the Norconian Ride and the Mayor’s Fourth of July Trail Ride, fostering deeper connections between residents and their hometown. Her advocacy goes beyond event coordination. Bonnie has worked diligently to improve trail connectivity throughout Norco, promoting safe and accessible routes for riders. Her efforts to preserve Norco’s rural character have been unwavering, ensuring the city remains a haven for equestrian and agricultural traditions.

Bonnie’s commitment to service extends beyond Norco. For 25 years, she volunteered at Rancho Cuyamaca State Park as a member of the Mounted Assistance Unit, patrolling trails and assisting lost or injured visitors. Her compassion and dedication have touched countless lives, demonstrating the true impact of selfless service.

Bonnie’s volunteerism is a powerful example of dedication, leadership, and passion. She shows how a single person’s commitment can positively shape an entire community, inspiring future generations to uphold the spirit of service in Norco.

NOW RECRUITING: Boards, Committees & Commissions

Interested in getting involved with local Boards, Committees & Commissions within the Second District?

Now accepting applications for:

Lakeland Village Community Advisory Council (CAC)
Children and Families Advisory Committee
Flood Control Commission

For more information, please visit https://rivcodistrict2.org/boards-committees-commissions

Board of Supervisors Meetings:

February 3 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
February 10 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
February 17 - NO MEETING
February 24 - NO MEETING

Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:

Woodcrest MAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
Temescal Valley MAC - Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Retreat at Wedgewood (8007 Soft Winds Drive, Temescal Valley, CA 92883). Learn more...
Lakeland Village CAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...